We have seen and heard from thousands of people who have benefited from this diet. I personally have lost both pounds and inches with this regimen using this application to guide me.

6) Where can I buy hCG products for this diet?

At this time, Edible Medicine LLC does not endorse or sell any specific products. It is recommended you purchase hCG and any supplements or other products from a reputable pharmacy or health care practitioner.

7) Why did you make this application?

We created this application for patients who were on the diet who were looking for an easy way to track their progress. We saw such amazing results and wanted to share this tracking and motivational tool with others. We wish you the best and congratulate you on your efforts!

8) What is the difference between the Phases in this app and other hCG protocols?

Dr. Simeon described two main phases, Phases 1 and 2. We have broken these up into four (P1-4) to make it easier for you to track the diet. There are some minor differences in the number of days that he suggests for each phase and suggestions from other sources. We give you a choice to decide how many days you want to be in P-2 (21-45) and P-3 (21-40). P-3 begins 72 hours AFTER you have stopped using the hCG. Kevin Trudeau separates the program into four phases, as he includes a Preparation Phase (Phase 1). This is encouraged, as it will help you adjust to changing your eating and give you some time to prepare, but it is not included in the hCGDietTracker application. We have separated Trudeau’s Phase 2 (weight loss cure protocol) into hCGDietTracker P-1 (Loading) and P-2 (hCG Diet). Our P-3 and P-4 are similar to his.

P-1 (Loading) This phase is for 2 days only. This is when you begin taking your hCG. You can eat what you want during these 48 hours. In fact, you are encouraged to eat to your heart’s content with foods very high in fat. Take advantage of these two days to eat your favorite foods that you may have to avoid during the next 2-3 phases. This step is critical in preparing your body to burn fat, so have your cake and then eat some more. Oh yeah, and some French-fries too.

P-2 (hCG Diet) This phase is 21-45 days long in which you use hCG and adhere to the strict very low calorie diet (VLCD) (You may skip days based on your menses or the length of your Phase). This diet is explained quite clearly in Dr. Simeon’s manuscript and also in Kevin Trudeau’s book. The basis is pre-weighed (100 grams) protein, certain vegetables, a piece of fruit, 2 melba toasts or breadsticks, and the juice of one lemon. The protein, vegetables, and piece of fruit are eaten twice a day. Drinks are water, tea, and coffee. Extras are one tablespoon of low-fat milk and spices and vinegar. The hCGDietTracker is made to help you keep track of what you can and cannot have and also to help plan your meals. It is essential that you strictly adhere to this protocol as best you can as you track your progress. After the last day of taking hCG, there are 3 additional days (72 hours) in which you continue to adhere to the diet, but do not use hCG.

P-3 (Maintenance) This phase is 21-40 days long and officially begins 72 hours AFTER you have stopped using HCG. It is during P-3 when Simeon theorizes that you reset your “weight point” and this signals changes in metabolism through your hypothalamus. During this phase, your food choices open up some. All animal proteins are allowed, as are eggs, cheese, all vegetables, good fats (like nuts/seeds, olive oil) and all low sugar fruits. No sugar and starches are allowed, which includes potatoes and legumes (beans) as well as all grain sources like bread, pasta, rice, and oats. Use the “Can I Eat” feature to determine which foods you may have and in what quantity. Some foods are “allowed” but suggested in “moderation”. Your goal is to try to stay within 3 pounds (1.36 kilos) of your last body weight at the end of P-3. If you gain more than 3 pounds (1.36 kilos), it is suggested you adjust your eating style (and you may choose to do a “steak day”, which is explained in Simeons manuscript, as well as Trudeau’s book). You may decide to start integrating some starches and sugars slowly into this phase during the last week by eating some of the “in moderation” foods more often.

P-4 (Integration) This phase starts once you decide to stop P-3 (which can last from 21-40 days based on your preference). Sugar and starches (in reasonable amounts) are allowed. Organic foods are encouraged. Congratulations This is rest of your life!!!

9) Is there a version of hCGDietTracker for the ipad or other types of handheld device platforms?

hCG diet tracker app is currently available for the iphone and ipad. In the future, we plan to offer versions for Android and Blackberry phones, as well as an online format.

10) Decisions

Getting started on the diet is a big decision in itself and there are some things to think about before you begin. It is best to read “Pounds and Inches” and/or Kevin Trudeau’s book, The Weight Loss Cure before you begin. This way you will understand in more detail what the diet consists of and how to plan and proceed. There are challenges to having to work your food choices around a busy schedule and staying on track, but you can do it!! This is unlike any other “diet”, get ready for a life change. The changes you make during the first phases, will help set you up for the changes you make around food for the rest of your life!

It is always a good idea to speak with your licensed health practitioner about your plans to do any diet, especially if you have other health concerns/issues. It may be a good idea to consult with someone who specializes in this diet. They may suggest certain physical exams and/or laboratory studies based on your health history and individual circumstances.

13) Supplies

There are not many supplies on this diet, besides the hCG in the form you choose to take it and your food items and any nutritional supplements you choose to take.

If you look online in yahoo hcg chat groups or in Trudeaus’s book, you can find lists of suggested supplies or things that make it easier. In Phase 2, there are limited choices (you can create some custom food for yourself).

You will need a measuring tape to keep track of your inches (cm.) and a body scale to track your weight.

A food scale is a good idea and some people invest in a small grill (like a George Foreman), which can be bought used for $5-10 on ebay or craigslist or find one in good conditon at a resale shop, like Goodwill.

Most of the supplies will be related to the form and dose of hCG you choose to use. This can be purchased through your health care practitioner.

… and of course FOOD. Food preparation will be a big factor in helping you successfully stay on the diet.

Invest in some freezer bags to pre-weigh and cut up your meat.That being said, make sure you have a nice sharp knife to cut up your food.

Get some carrying containers (Pyrex or similar is good if you are going to transport it and/or warm it up, as heating plastic in the microwave is not recommended. Use glass.)

14) Shopping

Create a shopping list each week of what you will be eating that week (there is a way to do this directly from the app) and some people think it helps to pick a day to do your weekly shopping and food preparation. Get creative with spices and recipes (there are tons online) so that you continue to keep your palate happy. Try to remove those things from your kitchen cupboards that may be tempting for you to eat if they are there.

15) Mental and Emotional Prep!

As stated above, this is a big change. We have a lot of emotions tied to food and when our diet (and routine) drastically change, we may have some mental and emotional consequence. In addition, hormones and energy levels may fluctuate with changes in eating. You will be making conscious choices about food and this can empower you. If you can, look online for a support group, get a buddy to do the diet with you, or seek the guidance of a medical professional who specializes in the hCG diet. They can be your cheerleaders and support group all in one.

16) What are the Phases of the Diet?

Phase 1 – Loading Phase

Phase 2 – VLCD (Very Low Calorie Diet)

Phase 3 – Maintenance Phase

Phase 4 – Integration Phase

Dr. Simeon described two main phases, Phases 1 and 2. We have broken these up into four (P1-4) to make it easier for you to track the diet. There are some minor differences in the number of days that he suggests for each phase and suggestions from other sources. We give you a choice to decide how many days you want to be in P-2 (21-45) and P-3 (21-40). P-3 begins 72 hours AFTER you have stopped using the hCG. Kevin Trudeau separates the program into four phases, as he includes a Preparation Phase (Phase 1). This is encouraged, as it will help you adjust to changing your eating and give you some time to prepare, but it is not included in the hCGDietTracker application. We have separated Trudeau’s Phase 2 (weight loss cure protocol) into hCGDietTracker P-1 (Loading) and P-2 (hCG Diet). Our P-3 and P-4 are similar to his.P-1 (Loading) This phase is for 2 days only. This is when you begin taking your hCG. You can eat what you want during these 48 hours. In fact, you are encouraged to eat to your heart’s content with foods very high in fat. Take advantage of these two days to eat your favorite foods that you may have to avoid during the next 2-3 phases. This step is critical in preparing your body to burn fat, so have your cake and then eat some more. Oh yeah, and some French-fries too.

P-2 (hCG Diet) This phase is 21-45 days long in which you use hCG and adhere to the strict very low calorie diet (VLCD) (You may skip days based on your menses or the length of your Phase). This diet is explained quite clearly in Dr. Simeon’s manuscript and also in Kevin Trudeau’s book. The basis is pre-weighed (100 grams) protein, certain vegetables, a piece of fruit, 2 melba toasts or breadsticks, and the juice of one lemon. The protein, vegetables, and piece of fruit are eaten twice a day. Drinks are water, tea, and coffee. Extras are one tablespoon of low-fat milk and spices and vinegar. The hCGDietTracker is made to help you keep track of what you can and cannot have and also to help plan your meals. It is essential that you strictly adhere to this protocol as best you can as you track your progress. After the last day of taking hCG, there are 3 additional days (72 hours) in which you continue to adhere to the diet, but do not use hCG.P-3 (Maintenance) This phase is 21-40 days long and officially begins 72 hours AFTER you have stopped using HCG. It is during P-3 when Simeon theorizes that you reset your “weight point” and this signals changes in metabolism through your hypothalamus. During this phase, your food choices open up some. All animal proteins are allowed, as are eggs, cheese, all vegetables, good fats (like nuts/seeds, olive oil) and all low sugar fruits. No sugar and starches are allowed, which includes potatoes and legumes (beans) as well as all grain sources like bread, pasta, rice, and oats. Use the “Can I Eat” feature to determine which foods you may have and in what quantity. Some foods are “allowed” but suggested in “moderation”. Your goal is to try to stay within 3 pounds (1.36 kilos) of your last body weight at the end of P-3. If you gain more than 3 pounds (1.36 kilos), it is suggested you adjust your eating style (and you may choose to do a “steak day”, which is explained in Simeons manuscript, as well as Trudeau’s book). You may decide to start integrating some starches and sugars slowly into this phase during the last week by eating some of the “in moderation” foods more often.

P-4 (Integration) This phase starts once you decide to stop P-3 (which can last from 21-40 days based on your preference). Sugar and starches (in reasonable amounts) are allowed. Organic foods are encouraged. Congratulations This is rest of your life!!!

17) How many rounds do I do?

Some people do one round and then they re-assess. It depends on how much total weight you want to lose, how much you lost in the first round, and how dedicated you are to the diet. Many people do 2 rounds, some do more with 4-6 week breaks inbetween. In general, you can expect to lose between 15-25 lbs each round, with some variability of course. Some people see less weight loss with more lost in inches/cms. I have some patients who have done the diet every few years if they get to the point where they are eating a lot more or unhealthy foods and want to resetablish a routine. The other end of the spectrum is some people only need to do the diet one time and they have kept the weight off for years.

18) Will I be hungry?

People can experience some hunger initially on the diet, but this usually subsides as your body adjusts. Keep in mind there are things you can do to alleviate hunger, primarily keeping hydrated. Often times, you may feel thristy and mistake it for hunger. Also, some people adjust the amount of food (calories) based upon the amount of activity they have that day. You should NOT be working out intensely, as you will not have enough energy stores to do so. But some choose to flucuate between 500 and 800 calories as needed. Also, if you continue to have hunger, you may need to adjust your hCG dose and you should consult with your health practitioner to do so.

19) Do I need to discontinue using cosmetics and toiletries while on the diet?

This is a personal choice. I have had some patients feel that they want to go all out and follow the diet as initially described, while others choose to continue with their daily regimen of soaps and cosmetics and succeeded as well.

20) What if I forget to add in information one day (or more)?

You can go back and add the info in if you would like. Go to Journal and click on the date you forgot. Click the (+) sign in the upper right hand corner and it will take you to the Journal for the day. Here you can input any comments, weight, add a photo or Meal Tracker information.

21) What if I do a second round? Can I use the application again?

Yes, you can, but you will have to reset the application and start over. The good news is that you can save your data by emailing it to yourself in pdf format. Go to “Preferences”. Scroll down and click on “Reset Data”. You will be asked if you are sure you want to reset the data (once you say yes, this cannot be undone). Click yes and you will be asked if you want to “save your data”? Say, YES and you will be given the option to email it to yourself and you can choose how far back you would like to go and what information you would like to send. If you would like to send yourself the information without resetting the app, go to “My Tracker” on the home page and the very last selection is “Email Info” and follow the same instructions as above (decide how far back you would like to go, where you want the information sent and what info you would like emailed.

22) Is there a calorie counter for the food choices in the app?

One of the nice things about the hCG diet is the fact that you do not really need to count calories as long as you are following the food quantities and selections specified on the diet (based on Simeon and Trudeau protocols). If you adhere to this, you should be eating well under 800 calories a day, probably closer to 500. Despite this, we have had many users request a calorie counter. I suppose old habits are hard to break and people are used to counting calories. So, we have responded by including a limited way to count calories in this new version of the app. In “Preferences

23) Saving/Emailing Information

“Under My Tracker”/”Email Info” you can decide what information and from what time frame you want to send to yourself or to someone else (like your doctor). It will be sent in the form of a pdf document to the email you choose. This is also an option if you choose to reset the app and erase all information so that you have the information from a previous round stored.

24) Resetting Data

In “Preferences”/”Reset Data” you can choose to reset the data and erase all of the information you have input into the app. It will give you the choice to “save/email the data” at this point and guide you to the screen to email the data to yourself.